If you’re looking for a quick and easy pasta recipe that’s full of flavor, then you’ve come to the right place! This pasta with arugula pesto is a simple yet delicious meal that can be made in just a few minutes. Arugula is a great herb to use in pesto because it has a peppery flavor that pairs well with the nutty taste of pine nuts and the sharpness of parmesan cheese. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make a bright and flavorful pesto that’s perfect for tossing with pasta.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make pasta with arugula pesto for 4 servings:
- 400g pasta
- 100g arugula leaves
- 50g pine nuts
- 1 garlic clove
- 1/2 lemon, juiced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 60ml olive oil
- 50g parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
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While the pasta is cooking, make the pesto. In a food processor, combine the arugula, pine nuts, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Pulse until finely chopped.
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With the motor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto is smooth and creamy. Add the parmesan cheese and pulse a few more times to combine.
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Drain the pasta and reserve 1 cup of the pasta water. Toss the pasta with the pesto, adding enough pasta water to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.
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Serve the pasta hot, topped with additional parmesan cheese and black pepper if desired.
Variations
- Vegetarian/Vegan: To make this recipe vegetarian or vegan, simply omit the parmesan cheese or use a vegan parmesan substitute.
- Add Protein: If you want to add some protein to this dish, try adding some grilled chicken or shrimp on top.
- Different Nuts: If you don’t have pine nuts, you can substitute them for walnuts or almonds.
- Different Greens: If you don’t have arugula, you can use other leafy greens like spinach, kale, or basil.
This pasta with arugula pesto is a great recipe to have in your back pocket for those nights when you need to get dinner on the table quickly. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and let us know what you think!
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. However, we recommend using a pasta with ridges or curves, such as fusilli or penne, as they can hold the pesto better.
Can I make the pesto ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the pesto ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover the pesto with a layer of olive oil to prevent it from turning brown.
Can I freeze the pesto?
Yes, you can freeze the pesto in an airtight container for up to 3 months. However, the texture may change slightly upon thawing, so we recommend using it within a few days after thawing.
Can I substitute the arugula with another leafy green?
Yes, you can substitute the arugula with other leafy greens, such as spinach or basil. However, the flavor of the pesto will be different.
Can I use a different type of nut instead of pine nuts?
Yes, you can use other types of nuts, such as walnuts or almonds. However, the flavor of the pesto will be different.
Can I add cheese to the pesto?
Yes, you can add grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese to the pesto. However, keep in mind that the pesto will be saltier and thicker with the addition of cheese.
Can I make the pesto without garlic?
Yes, you can omit the garlic if you prefer. However, the pesto will have a milder flavor.
Can I use a food processor instead of a blender to make the pesto?
Yes, you can use a food processor instead of a blender. However, the pesto may not be as smooth as it would be with a blender.
Can I add other ingredients to the pasta?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the pasta, such as cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables. However, keep in mind that the flavor of the pasta may change depending on the ingredients you add.
Can I serve the pasta cold?
Yes, you can serve the pasta cold as a pasta salad. However, make sure to toss the pasta with some olive oil to prevent it from sticking together.
